Whatever: January 2006 Archives

January 20, 2006

Pussy lover criticises pooves

England: Renowned artists Gilbert and George's new exhibition has upset one or two philistines, even though it hasn't opened yet. The exhibition uses imagery from a range of religious traditions, both formal and popular.

Even before going on display today at London's White Cube gallery, the 21 new artworks - collectively titled Sonofagod Pictures: Was Jesus Heterosexual? - have aroused the fury of the Tory MP Ann Widdecombe, who has called them blasphemous in the extreme, as [Gilbert and George] will find out when finally they stand before the Son of God

In contrast, some religious people are more appreciative:

But the Bishop of Stepney, according to George, has been very polite and very nice, and requested a studio visit.

The artists told The Guardian that the work was inoffensive compared to Christianity itself:

Gilbert: Christians are abusive to humans - to women, to queers. They threaten us with hell. George: That's offensive, not us.